Dressing the Bump: The Fashion Girl's Guide to a Pregnant Party Season
Hello, my name is Jade and I am the proud owner of a pregnant body. Over the past five months, I've learned that maternity dressing for events is hard, but not impossible. While your go-to Levi's may no longer fit, there are ample brands that will, such as: Ellery, Camilla and Marc, Bassike and Zimmermann (cue another excuse to shop).
Whether you're dressing for Sunday lunch or after-five, follow the lead of Pernille Teisbaek and Eva Chen—embrace the third-piece rule, experiment with different shapes and don't be afraid to go up a size in brands you already wear. You're pregnant, not lacking taste!
Scroll to shop bump-friendly event outfits you'll continue to wear post-birth.
After-Five
The best thing about maternity dressing? Your go-to leather jacket will still fit. Wear undone with the sleeves pushed up to frame your bump.
While finding breezy dresses to accommodate the bump is easy, finding ones that don't make you like you're wearing a tent is not. Style with a cropped jacket to create a flattering silhouette (Kimmy K and Chrissy Teigen both used this trick).This dress has ample room for bub, yet the high split shows enough leg to give you extra length and shape.
If you're still wearing heels, support your feet with a block heel and ankle strap. Alternatively, a pair of Ancient Greek Sandals is just as chic.
Ladies Lunch
Any event that involves sitting, food and going home before dark is a pregnant woman's dream. If the lunch is white-themed, purchasing separates will take your dollar further—you'll re-wear this knit tunic long after bub is born.
When spending your pennies on expensive clothes no longer seems practical, channel your energy into accessories—specifically, gold earrings you'll wear with everything. Take advantage of the cluster piercing trend and opt for only one at a time.
Go up one size in this skirt and wear over the bump. The stretchy fabric will continue to accommodate your growing belly over summer.
A Pop Art clutch injects a touch of personality into an otherwise classic look.
Nude pumps are renowned for their leg-lengthening ability, which is exactly what you want when you're feeling a little more stout. If the four-inch heel seems a little ambitious, switch for a calf-friendly suede mule.
Casual Christmas Drinks
If Camilla and Marc is already one of your go-to labels, you'll be pleased to know the brand's oversized tops are perfectly suited to an expanding belly. (Fun fact: every time I wear this top, I receive compliments aplenty.)While the off-shoulder trend isn't new, exposed collarbones is one of the most flattering looks for an expanding waistline.
The elastic waistband means these shorts will take you right into summer. Also, when you can't define your waist, drawing attention to your legs is the next best thing. Side note: Bassike also has the cutest baby clothes.
Mules are an ideal choice for occasions that call for spending a long time on your feet.
Christmas Day
When you're pregnant, your number one nemesis is heat. Keep cool on Christmas Day with this crushed linen dress.
Have you seen anything more festive? It's the perfect nod to the occasion, while staying firmly on trend.
The high street version of the Chloe heel from earlier this year has everything you need. It's low, block-heeled and supportive. Winner.
Sunday Barbecue
You'll wear this black slip dress day after day. The structured, looser fit means it will glide over your belly, without billowing out like a tent.
Slip on, slip off. Every wardrobe needs an everyday slide, and this is it.
New Year's Eve
File this under: Important Information You Need to Know. During pregnancy, jumpsuits are more flattering than maxi dresses because they nip in at the ankle/leg, showing off your actual size (rather than creating a wider silhouette). This version from Zimmermann is a little on the sheer side, so you'll want to pair with flesh-coloured underwear. Yes, it's a little more casual than your usual NYE attire, but chances are you'll be spending the night at a house party rather than taking on the CBD.
I'm willing to bet you already own a pair of strappy nude heels, but if not, these are a steal.
Opening image:Getty Images
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Who's your style icon?
Leandra Medine and Pernille Teisbaek.
Who are your 5 favourite people to follow on Instagram?
@whowhatwear.au, @byrdiebeauty.au and @mydomaine.au, obvi. Then, @captainandthegypsykid, @beautyisboring_, @ameliafullarton, @harperandharley and @nadiafairfax.
What's the fashion essential you can't live without?
My Gucci Soho Disco bag. I take it everywhere.
What's your desert island album?
Take Care by Drake.
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